Every professional athlete’s career starts somewhere, and for many, that somewhere is high school. It’s on these fields and courts that future stars first demonstrate the skills and drive that will one day take them to the top of their sport. This article spotlights 15 high school athletes who didn’t just excel in their youth but went on to achieve professional stardom.
LeBron James – Basketball
LeBron James’ high school career was unlike any other. Sports Illustrated declared him “King James” at 16 years old, and his flair was undeniable. Even though James wasn’t a part of the NBA court yet, he signed a record-breaking endorsement deal with Nike. Due to an unmatched combination of size, speed, and strength, he became a dominant force on the court.
Kobe Bryant – Basketball
In his first year, Kobe Byrant joined a team that had only won four games and, in just three years, led them to a state championship. Bryant’s leap from high school to the NBA in 1996 was a watershed moment. After being drafted by the Charlotte Hornets (now the New Orleans Pelicans), Bryant was quickly traded to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Earvin Johnson – Basketball
Earning the iconic nickname “Magic” as a sophomore, Earvin Johnson’s high school career was an indication of his technique and perseverance. His dominance continued throughout high school, culminating in a state championship title, Michigan Player of the Year honors, and the prestigious Parade National Player of the Year award.
Dwight Eddleman – Basketball
Dwight Eddleman was among the versatile athletes at the University of Illinois, and he earned 11 varsity letters during his college career. Earlier, Eddleman dominated in high school. He set a national record for career basketball points (2,702) while leading his team to a state championship. During his six seasons in the NBA, he earned two All-Star honors.
Lisa Leslie – Basketball
Morningside High School in Inglewood produced an iconic basketball star, Lisa Leslie. She made headlines after she scored an astounding number of points in a single game (101 points in the first half, to be exact). Leslie’s remarkable performance on the field paved the way for her to successfully participate in the WNBA and win multiple Olympic gold medals.
Peyton Manning – Football
Isidore Newman School’s Peyton Manning was a force to reckon with, and his gameplay attracted offers from the top colleges. However, the footballer chose the University of Tennessee, a national powerhouse known for its passionate fan base. He also received the distinguished Sullivan Award. Finally, in 1998, he entered the NFL Draft and was selected by the Indianapolis Colts.
Barry Sanders – Football
Another sports personality who excelled in high school is Barry Sanders. At Wichita North, he displayed an electrifying agility and speed that would define his career. His talent was evident early on, and he won the eminent Heisman Trophy in college before becoming an NFL legend. “Barry’s ability to make defenders miss tackles was unlike anything I’d ever seen,” his high school coach marveled.
Chuck Bednarik – Football
Chuck Bednarik’s list of accolades includes a Maxwell Award and three-time All-American while he played for the University of Pennsylvania. As part of the NFL, his defensive prowess was undeniable. Bednarik was a skilled tackler known for shutting down the most elusive running backs. His legacy is honored with a grand statue inside the Franklin Field concourse.
Mia Hamm – Soccer
Global soccer icon Mia Hamm was carving a path to success at the University of North Carolina. Playing under legendary coach Anson Dorrance from 1989-1994, Hamm helped transform the Tar Heels into one of the most dominant programs in college athletics, regardless of sport.
Tiger Woods – Golf
A young Tiger Woods took over the international golf scene and participated in a PGA Tour event at just 16. As a freshman, he earned the L.A. Times Golfer of the Year award, a sign of things to come. Woods conquered high school golf and won three Orange League titles and three Southern Section championships.
Jackie Joyner-Kersee – Track and Field
Jackie Joyner-Kersee was a multi-sport standout at Lincoln Senior High School in Illinois. She dominated track and field, excelling in the demanding heptathlon and the long jump. Her ability was evident early on, as Jackie captured multiple state titles in both events. This success laid the foundation for her remarkable Olympic career, where she won six medals, including three golds.
Wilma Rudolph – Track and Field
Who knew Wilma Rudolph would become a track and field star at Burt High School in Tennessee despite suffering from polio as a child? Her determination culminated in a historic moment at the 1960 Olympics, where she captured three gold medals. The achievement solidified her place in sporting history and continues to inspire generations of athletes.
Michael Phelps – Swimming
Olympian Michaell Phelps is among the most decorated athletes, holding the record for most gold medals overall (28) and most individual gold medals (13), all achieved while representing the United States in swimming. From his time at Towson High School in Maryland, Phelps shattered numerous national records that propelled him to an unmatched professional career.
Elena Delle Donne – Basketball
Cementing her legacy as the No. 1 player in the Ursuline Academy class, she nailed a record-breaking 80 consecutive free throws and earned national player of the year honors. Back then, she was known as the “female LeBron James.” However, unlike James’s direct path to the NBA, Donne’s journey began after being drafted second overall by the Chicago Sky in 2013.
Josh Hamilton – Baseball
With an admirable physique of 6 feet 4 inches and massive size 19 shoes, Josh Hamilton was an imposing figure on the field. Interestingly, his high school fastball reportedly reached 96 mph, making him an intimidating presence for opposing batters. He displayed impressive power throughout his professional career, with 200 home runs and winning three Silver Slugger Awards.